The deer tick, also known as the black-legged tick, is a small arachnid commonly found in wooded and grassy areas. It is most active during the warmer months and feeds on the blood of mammals, including deer, which is how it gets its name. Deer ticks are known for transmitting diseases, most notably Lyme disease, which can cause serious health issues in humans if not treated promptly. These ticks are typically very small, making them difficult to spot, and they attach to the skin of their hosts to feed. Regular checks for ticks after outdoor activities are recommended to prevent bites.